North Carolina Office of the Governor
Recent News About North Carolina Office of the Governor
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Governor Cooper and Democratic Leaders Call for Moratorium on Taxpayer-Funded Private School Vouchers
Governor Roy Cooper, along with Democratic legislative leaders, held a press conference to announce new legislation aimed at halting the expansion of taxpayer-funded private school vouchers until public schools in North Carolina are adequately funded. The proposed bill, filed in both the House (House Bill 993) and the Senate (Senate Bill 853), introduces accountability measures for private schools accepting voucher students, including standardized testing requirements and services for students with disabilities.Governor Cooper expressed his concerns, stating, “This scheme...
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Republicans Prioritize Taxpayer-Funded Private School Vouchers for Millionaires Over Teacher Pay and Public School Funding
Republican legislators in North Carolina have made it clear that their focus for this session includes using taxpayer money to fund private school vouchers for millionaires rather than prioritizing teacher pay raises or fully financing public schools. Governor Roy Cooper criticized this decision, stating, "Of all the important issues in North Carolina, the top priority for Republicans is funneling taxpayer money into private school vouchers for the wealthy instead of giving teachers a decent pay raise. This is catastrophic for the hardworking educators who deserve higher...
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Governor Cooper Announces Three Judicial Appointments
Governor Roy Cooper announced three appointments to the North Carolina District Court, stating, “These three judges have served their communities well and bring a variety of experience to their new positions. I am grateful for their willingness to step up and for their dedication to the people of North Carolina.”Kevin Boxberger has been appointed to serve as District Court Judge in Judicial District 10 serving Wake County. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Ned Mangum. Boxberger, an Air Force veteran, previously served as an attorney at the Law...
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Study Finds Significant Economic Impact for North Carolina Generated by 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway
A recent study conducted by the NC Department of Commerce revealed the substantial economic impact brought about by the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina. Governor Roy Cooper highlighted the positive outcomes of hosting the event, including the creation of 625 jobs, a $42.4 million boost to the statewide economy, and a $27.9 million increase in statewide labor income. Additionally, over $20 million was invested in direct construction and infrastructure in Wilkes County, with nearly $29 million in visitor spending.Governor Cooper...
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Governor Cooper Announces 501 Jobs as Window Manufacturer Selects Johnston County
Governor Roy Cooper has announced that Crystal Window & Door Systems, a leading manufacturer of replacement and new construction windows, will be establishing a manufacturing center in Johnston County, creating 501 jobs with an investment of $83.6 million in Selma."More great manufacturing jobs are coming to Johnston County and North Carolina, the number one state for business in the country,” Governor Cooper stated, emphasizing the state's skilled workforce and favorable business climate as key factors in attracting businesses.The Chairman and Founder of Crystal Window...
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North Carolina’s Success in the Clean Energy Economy Continues with 545 New Jobs Coming to Lincoln County
Governor Roy Cooper announced today that Green New Energy Materials, Inc. will establish its first manufacturing operation in the United States in Lincoln County, creating 545 jobs and investing $140 million in the community of Denver, North Carolina."North Carolina’s momentum in clean energy economy grows stronger every day, bringing great manufacturing jobs that will put money in the pockets of families in Lincoln County and all across the state,” said Governor Cooper.Jay Zhu, General Manager for Green New Energy Materials, expressed gratitude for the support from the...
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Governor Cooper Announces Two Judicial Appointments
Governor Roy Cooper has announced the appointment of two individuals to the North Carolina District Court.In a statement, Governor Cooper expressed his confidence in the appointees, stating, "Judge Boger-Allen and Bryan Norris bring a variety of legal experience to the District Court bench and have served our state well over the years. I’m grateful for their continued dedication to the people of North Carolina and I’m confident they will continue to serve our state with distinction in these new positions."Bryan Norris has been appointed as District Court Judge in...
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Governor Cooper Proclaims April as Autism Awareness Month in North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed April as World Autism Month in North Carolina to raise awareness and recognize individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), their families, and organizations working to support them.“People with autism spectrum disorder are a valued part of our communities, employers, and North Carolina as a whole,” said Governor Cooper. “All people deserve support and opportunities to succeed. We will continue to fight for fair treatment and inclusive environments for everyone in our state.”According to a 2020 report by the Centers for Disease...
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Global Solar Technology Leader Selects Pitt County for First North American Production Facility
In an announcement made on Apr 26, 2024, Boviet Solar, a global renewable energy company, revealed plans to establish its first North American solar panel manufacturing facility in Pitt County, creating 908 new jobs with an investment exceeding $294 million. Governor Roy Cooper expressed his enthusiasm stating, “It’s great to welcome Boviet Solar to North Carolina,” emphasizing the state's appeal as a hub for clean energy and its support for sustainability initiatives.Jimmy Xie, General Manager of Boviet Solar, shared his excitement, saying, “Our dreams of producing our...
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Gov. Cooper Presents Budget Focused on Public Education and Economic Growth
Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina has unveiled his proposed budget for the fiscal year 2024-2025, titled "Securing North Carolina’s Future." The budget emphasizes investments in key areas such as public education, child care, and workforce development while eschewing taxpayer-funded private school vouchers.In a statement, Governor Cooper highlighted the importance of the budget in addressing critical needs within the state, stating, “This budget is an opportunity to build on our state’s momentum and make up ground in areas like public education, quality child care and...
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North Carolina Governor Honors NASA Astronaut Christina Koch and Emphasizes Strong Public Schools
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper honored NASA Astronaut Christina Koch, a North Carolina native, for her achievements and emphasized the importance of North Carolina's STEM education programs and robust public school system. During the ceremony, Governor Cooper presented Koch with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state's highest honorary society. The event was attended by Congresswoman Deborah Ross, elected officials, educators, scientists, and students from The Exploris School."Astronaut Koch’s journey from North Carolina public schools to space is inspiring to all...
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North Carolina Celebrates Strong STEM Education Programs with NASA Astronaut and State Officials
Governor Roy Cooper, NASA Astronaut Christina Koch, and North Carolina A&T Chancellor Harold Martin came together at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to emphasize the state's robust STEM public education programs. The event aimed to showcase the importance of public education in shaping successful careers, with a focus on inspiring students to pursue opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.Governor Cooper praised North Carolina's public schools, stating, “North Carolina’s strong public schools are setting our students...
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Governor Cooper Announces 157 New Jobs as Innovative Construction Group Selects Chatham County
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his enthusiasm for the arrival of Innovative Construction Group (ICG) in Chatham County, stating, “North Carolina’s growth and reputation as an excellent place to do business continues to attract great companies to the state.” The company plans to create 157 new jobs over the next five years with a capital investment of $39.8 million.Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders highlighted the significance of investing in public education and workforce training systems, stating, “Just as this company is investing in our state, we...
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Governor Cooper Announces $156 million EPA Award to Strengthen Solar Energy Use in Communities Across North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper has announced that the EnergizeNC coalition in North Carolina has been awarded $156 million by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enhance the use of solar energy in communities across the state. The funding, provided through the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) grant program, aims to make low-cost, reliable solar energy more accessible, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged areas.In response to the grant award, Governor Cooper expressed gratitude and highlighted the significance of this funding for North Carolina's clean energy...
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Governor Cooper Celebrates Earth Day on Blue Ridge Parkway
Governor Roy Cooper and North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR) Secretary Reid Wilson marked Earth Day by visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway in Buncombe County. They were accompanied by the National Park Service and state conservation leaders.“The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of our state’s most prominent places to experience our natural beauty, and an excellent place to celebrate Earth Day,” Governor Cooper expressed during the visit. “We are more committed than ever to leave North Carolina better than we found it and to preserve and protect the...
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South African Advanced Manufacturer Invests $9 Million in Forsyth County, Creating 32 Jobs
Radél, Inc., a global manufacturer of electro-mechanical components, has announced its plans to establish a new production facility in Forsyth County, North Carolina with a $9 million investment. The move is expected to create 32 jobs in the area.Governor Roy Cooper expressed his enthusiasm about the company's decision, stating, “We’re pleased to welcome another international advanced manufacturer to North Carolina. The state’s investments in workforce training and education programs continue to pay off, bringing more jobs and private investment to the state and growing...
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Governor Cooper and Former UNC System President Tom Ross Speak Out Against Efforts to Abolish Diversity Initiatives
Governor Roy Cooper and former UNC System President Tom Ross have voiced their concerns over the UNC System Board of Governors' attempts to abolish positions and initiatives that promote diversity at public universities in North Carolina.“Our diversity should be used to highlight our state’s strengths, not our political divisions. Republican legislative and university leaders who attack diversity at our public universities are failing in their duty to protect students while threatening our ability to recruit top scientists, researchers and innovators who power our...
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Governor Cooper Proclaims April 15th-19th Enrollment Assisters Appreciation Week in North Carolina
Today, Governor Roy Cooper signed a proclamation for Enrollment Assisters Appreciation Week in North Carolina to honor the dedication and hard work of enrollment assisters in helping individuals apply for health coverage across the state. The proclamation comes as a recognition of the pivotal role played by these assisters in facilitating access to healthcare during a momentous period for health coverage in North Carolina.Enrollment assisters, such as the North Carolina Navigators Consortium and Care Share Health Alliance, have been instrumental in the successful...
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Governor Cooper Tours Dorothy B. Johnson Pre-K Center, Highlights How Strong Public Schools Make Strong Communities
Governor Roy Cooper visited the Dorothy B. Johnson Pre-K Center as part of “The Year of Public Schools” education tour. The Governor highlighted the importance of public education in strengthening North Carolina’s communities, emphasizing the need for investments in early childhood education and teacher pay.Governor Cooper stated, “The Dorothy B. Johnson Pre-K Center is creating a strong foundation for children in New Hanover County. We need to make meaningful investments in Pre-K and our public schools so students across North Carolina are given the resources to...
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Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio Visits North Carolina for Historic Events
On Friday, the historic visit of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and his wife Kishida Yuko to North Carolina continued with an array of events. Governor Cooper, Prime Minister Kishida, and a delegation of Japanese dignitaries visited Toyota’s first and only electric and hybrid battery plant in Liberty, North Carolina, and toured HondaJet in Greensboro.First Lady Kristin Cooper and Mrs. Kishida participated in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, followed by a visit to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences to view a...